Here are a few of my favorite tips for making the process of writing a cover letter a lot more enjoyable, effective, and human:

1. Begin the conversation.

I like thinking about a cover letter as the beginning of a conversation for a few reasons. First, it’s a nice way of remembering that it doesn’t need to include every single thing about you — just enough to inspire someone at this particular company to want to know more. Second, it’s a reminder that you’re not writing it in a void: there’s a person on the other side of the screen reading what you’re sharing, and having their own thoughts and ideas as they do. And third, it helps take some of that must-get-hired-now pressure off of the whole experience. A cover letter doesn’t have to get you the job instantly; it just has to get you to the next step of the process.

So, as you’re approaching your cover letter, think about how you’d personally want to start a conversation that would be really enjoyable to have, and also think about who you’re having that conversation with. What about you would be most helpful for them to know? Is there a story or detail that would really help illustrate that? And what about them intrigues you? Tell them what it is and why — and then let them know that you look forward to continuing the conversation soon.

2. Share your enthusiasm.

I don’t mean all caps and exclamation points, but I do mean kicking off your cover letter by sharing what lights you up about the role, the company, and what it’s all about. You might speak to an aspect of the company’s mission that aligns with your values, or how their approach totally fits your own philosophy on work. Enthusiasm is a great shortcut to connection, and also a way of sharing the whole person that you are.

The other thing about enthusiasm is that in order to share it, you gotta have it! I know that sounds obvious, but it’s important to note that if you're having trouble expressing why you'd love to work for this company, it might be a sign that your time would be better spent writing a cover letter to someone else. I said it!

3. Do a little homework.

Your future employer wants to feel seen just like we all do, so let them know that you're familiar with who they are and what they’re up to by doing some research before you reach out. This doesn’t have to be a whole thing: For example, you might check out their website and social media accounts, and include a detail or two that you've discovered in the process. Did they post something you love? Do you have a friend in common? Does a particular project delight you? Let 'em know!

While you're doing your homework, notice the style and tone of the company. Is it serious? Playful? Weird? Inviting some of that into your cover letter can be a fun creative exercise and another great way to show the company you see them. One way to think about this is: Imagine you're at a super formal black tie affair, then imagine you're in a really casual comedy club. How might you carry yourself differently in each? If your answer is, "I wouldn't, Cate!" then by all means, ignore this part of the tip and do you!

Like my last point about enthusiasm, another benefit of doing your homework is that it tells you as much about yourself as it does about the company. If you find that you’re deep in the rabbit hole of this company with no desire to get out, that’s a good sign that it might be a great place for you.

4. Fit the format.

A cover letter might be a traditional 3 – 5 paragraph situation if that's the kind of company and role you're going for (you’ll know because the application, posting, or recruiter will likely mention it), but it might also be an email (where brevity is your friend) or even a DM (where brevity is an even better friend). Just like a tea cup and your 32-oz. water bottle hold different amounts, different types of cover letters do, too! So, if you were feeling like you needed to fit a whole page of text into a single Instagram message, the intention of this tip is to release you from that need.

5. Read it out loud.

Hearing your own voice reading your cover letter is an excellent way to see if it feels conversational, truthful, and like you. (It’s also one of my favorite ways to check for typos.) As you read your words out loud, notice how you feel: Apologetic, or confident? Like you’re saying too much, or just enough? As though you’re talking to someone who holds the keys to your future, or an exciting potential collaborator? Clock whatever you notice, adjust as necessary, then send it off.

And when you do, remember: the world needs you and your unique brilliance. Do something kind for yourself for having the courage to share it — and trust that by doing so, your next role is on its way to you.

I hope this has been helpful! Stay tuned for more tips like these, and keep an eye out for handy tools (did someone say “templates”?) coming soon.

And if have questions or need more support, reach out.